Saint Dominic School in Bangkok, Thailand, has installed 816 solar panels over three buildings on the campus. Salesians recognize the importance of implementing sustainable practices to promote environmental stewardship. One of the school’s goals is energy conservation by utilizing renewable sources in the school’s infrastructure.
A Salesian said, “In addition to the environmental benefits, solar energy also serves as an educational tool, facilitates teaching and learning activities, and reduces electricity expenses. The Salesian Society Foundation of Thailand’s green initiative not only focuses on utilizing solar energy for electricity generation in schools but instilling a sense of environmental responsibility to foster a culture of sustainability by increasing green spaces and balancing nature.”
Solar panels with the newest technology, made of high-quality premium-grade silicon, were installed in March 2022. The installation was completed in September of the same year. The solar panels were installed on the Bosco, Savio and Michael Rua building rooftops.
The school will see several benefits from the solar panels. By reducing monthly electricity bills, the difference in electricity expenses can be utilized for other needs at the school. In addition, the solar panels help reduce the heat reaching the roof. They provide shade during day, saving electricity as air conditioners do not need to work as hard.
Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21% in 2000 to 10.9% in 2018, according to the World Bank. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” （those who hold state-issued welfare cards） as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. There are 8.1 million people in Thailand who are poor and 4.4 million below poverty line.
Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.
